Product Positioning
Product positioning is all about shaping how people see a brand and its products. It helps customers understand why they need a certain product, how it solves their problems, and what makes it special. In other words, what is product positioning in marketing? It’s how brands create the right image to connect with their audience.
There are tons of similar products out there, and sometimes, they don’t seem that different. But product positioning is what makes one brand stand out from another. Take Pepsi and Coke – both are basically the same kind of drink, but the way they’re marketed makes them feel different. That’s a perfect example of what is product positioning and how it influences what people choose to buy.
What are the common types of product positioning?
Product positioning is all about showing customers why a product is special and different from others. One way to do this is by choosing the right types of product positioning that highlight key features like price, quality, or even the target audience. Here are some of the most common ways brands position their products.
1. By price
Price is a big deal when it comes to buying decisions, so why not use it in marketing? A fair price combined with high quality can attract tons of customers. People love good deals! On the other hand, luxury brands use product positioning by price to show they are exclusive and not for everyone.
2. By product quality
Not everyone is focused on price – some care more about quality. If a brand proves that its product lasts longer and works better than others, even budget-conscious buyers might go for it. This product positioning strategy is often used by premium brands that want to stand out from cheaper alternatives.
3. By product user
Different products appeal to different groups of people. A great example of this type of product positioning is Coke and Pepsi. Pepsi targets younger consumers and works with trending influencers, while Coke focuses on a more traditional and older audience. This influences how each brand markets itself.
4. By product class
Sometimes, competitors come from unexpected places. For years, 7-Up was just a refreshing drink. But when the brand noticed people mostly used it as a mixer for alcoholic drinks, they repositioned themselves as an alternative to classic fizzy sodas. This shift in product positioning helped them find a new audience.
5. Based on competition
Some brands position themselves by directly comparing with their rivals. Burger King’s “Have it your way” campaign highlights how their menu is more flexible than McDonald’s. Apple’s “Everything is easier on a Mac” makes it clear they believe their computers are simpler to use than Microsoft’s. This type of product positioning works when a brand wants to stand out from its biggest competitors.
5 best product positioning examples
Here are five great product positioning examples that show how brands successfully set themselves apart:
• Apple
Apple has mastered product positioning by establishing itself as a premium, user-friendly brand known for sleek designs and cutting-edge technology. Their marketing focuses on simplicity, innovation, and exclusivity, making customers feel like they’re part of something special. Whether it’s an iPhone, MacBook, or Apple Watch, Apple products are seen as high-end and reliable, appealing to those who value design and performance.
• Tesla
Tesla isn’t just selling electric cars – it’s selling the future. The brand’s product positioning revolves around innovation, sustainability, and high-performance technology. With features like self-driving capabilities, over-the-air software updates, and a commitment to clean energy, Tesla has changed how people view electric vehicles.
Their marketing highlights not just eco-friendliness but also luxury and speed, making their cars desirable for both tech enthusiasts and environmentally conscious buyers.
• Coca-Cola
Coca-Cola has built its brand around happiness, togetherness, and nostalgia. Instead of just focusing on the taste of their soda, their marketing creates emotional connections with customers. Campaigns like “Share a Coke” and their classic holiday ads reinforce a sense of joy and community.
Their global branding is consistent, making Coca-Cola one of the strongest product positioning examples in the beverage industry.
• Nike
Nike isn’t just about selling shoes or sportswear – it’s about motivation and pushing limits. Their famous “Just Do It” slogan is a great product positioning strategy that encourages people to overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
Nike’s ads often feature inspiring stories of athletes who have faced obstacles, reinforcing their brand message of perseverance, determination, and excellence. This strong emotional connection makes customers feel empowered when they wear Nike products.
• Starbucks
Starbucks transformed coffee from a simple, everyday drink into a premium lifestyle experience. Instead of just selling coffee, they created an atmosphere where customers can relax, work, or socialize. Their stores are designed to feel cozy and inviting, and they offer personalized drinks that cater to individual tastes.
This approach to product positioning makes Starbucks stand out in the crowded coffee market, justifying its higher prices and turning it into a global coffee powerhouse.
These product positioning examples prove that success isn’t just about what you sell – it’s about how you make customers feel and the story you tell about your product.
How can you use product positioning in eCommerce?
• Know your customers
Before you can shape your product positioning, you need to understand who your target audience is. It’s important to know their age, location, values, and how they see the world. This information will help you build a strong foundation for your brand strategy. You can also gather insights by asking your network for opinions or conducting surveys to collect valuable feedback.
• Know your competitors
To make your brand stand out, you need to know what your competitors are doing. Are they missing quality? Emotional appeal? A unique style? Identifying gaps in the market will help you craft a strong product positioning strategy. However, always keep your audience in mind – what works for a younger crowd might not resonate with an older one.
Understanding your customers will guide every decision you make.
• Work on perception and uniqueness
Now that you know what your customers want and where your competitors fall short, it’s time to shape your brand image. Product positioning is all about creating a unique identity in the minds of your audience. Connect with customers in ways your competitors can’t, and make sure they see your product the way you want them to.
If you don’t take control of this process, people will form their own perceptions – so it’s best to take charge and define your brand’s identity yourself!
Use this article to improve your brand’s image in the eyes of the customers! Perception is one of the key elements of the business’s success, but thankfully, you can control it and make it work in your favor!
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